What are the qualities of an effective memoir?

Ineffective Memoir Boring title Introduction of facts, not a lead that grabs the readers attention None of the writer’s thoughts feelings and observations No dialogue What’s the point? So what? No conclusion –just stops

Qualities Of A Memoir That Works Title invites and fits The lead (hook) brings reader into the action of the story Who, What, Where, When and Why are woven into the narrative There’s a setting: a time and place(s)

There’s a lot of I: thoughts, feelings and observations Writer uses sensory detail – touch, taste, see, hear, smell Strong verbs and adjectives Dialogue used There is a meaning or significance to the memory

Ideas for Writing a Memoir Name stories “Where I grew up” stories Pain stories (someone hurt you, argument with best friend, parents or siblings) First day of school stories Realizing you are growing up stories

Weather stories Holiday stories Physical Hurt stories (broken bones, stitches, surgeries) First time I… stories “Caught ya’!’ stories (lying, cheating)